Ordained ministers selected upon completion of prescribed courses of study
Within Mitropolia of Basarabia, the theological preparation necessary for ordination (ordinance) is carried out through university extensions in Romania, which offer study programs recognized by the Romanian Patriarchate.
Here are the main options for pastoral theology studies in 2026:
1. Bachelor's Degree (Pastoral Theology)
To become a priest, it is mandatory to graduate from a theology faculty, specializing in Pastoral Theology (4 years).
- The Iași Faculty of Orthodox Theology – Chișinău extension (Alexandru Ioan Cuza University): It operates in partnership with the Metropolitanate of Bessarabia and offers a bachelor's degree program in Orthodox Pastoral TheologyThe courses are usually held on the premises of the State University of Moldova (USM).
- Further details are available on the Faculty of Orthodox Theology website in Iași.
2. Master's Studies (Pastoral Ministry and Liturgical Life)
After the bachelor's degree, candidates are often encouraged to pursue master's studies for further study.
- The Chișinău Extension of the University of Bucharest (UB): The Faculty of Orthodox Theology "Justinian the Patriarch" organizes the Master’s program in Chisinau, titled ‘Pastoral Care and Liturgical Life’.
3. Priestly Capacity Exam
After completing their theological studies, graduates who wish to be ordained must take a Priestly Ordination Exam. This assesses liturgical, homiletical (preaching), and administrative knowledge.
4. Continuing Education and Special Courses
Resource Center of the Diaconia Social Mission within the Metropolis periodically organizes trainings and formation modules for clergy and candidates, such as:
- Catechesis courses for organizing Sunday schools.
- Thematic trainings (e.g. "Youth and the Priest") for managing youth ministry.